A Death for a Life (Hara Kiri)

Author's Note: Information you will need to know

Hara Kiri, or formally called seppuku, is the samurai art of suicide. To prevent themselves from falling into enemy hands, to restore and/or enhance honor, or by order of their lord, the samurai would perform Hara Kiri. For many decades this was seen as one of the bravest and most honorable acts a person could perform.

This was done very ceremoniously if not in the heat of battle. The one performing the Hara Kiri would have their favorite meal and then write a "Death Poem." This usually contained their last thoughts or sometimes was as simple as a last will and testimony. Once done, the meal dish and/or text would be taken and replaced with a dirk (a short sword or long dagger) wrapped in a piece of rice paper.

The samurai would then take the blade and pierce themselves in the left of their abdomen and then slice their stomach till the blade reached their right side. This was done in several ways, as history tells, but this seems to be the most consistent.

This was known to be an extremely painful way to die, so a 'Second' was appointed to relieve the pain. The Second would stand behind the samurai with their sword at the ready. After the slicing of their abdomen, the samurai would give a sign or signal when the pain was too great. The Second would then slice off the samurai's head. There was not shame in having a Second.

If the Hara Kiri was taking place as a punishment for a crime then officials from all parties affected would be summoned as witnesses. This was done to be sure that a stand in was not used and for verification that the Hara Kiri had taken place.

Women would also perform Hara Kiri, though there were slight differences and it was called Jigai. The women would bind their knees together so that when they fell they would be in a dignified position. They would sometimes cut their throat instead of the stomach as well.

I am in no way trying to make light of this sacred ritual of disembowelment, I am just trying to draw a logical parallel between Japan and the Fire Nation (which many of its characteristics seem to be drawn from Japan and the Tang/Tong Dynasty of China.)

I hope you all enjoy this story; it is my second so please tell me what I can do better.

(This story will cover exactly one post-war year)

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